How to Pull Side Stalks From Growing Corn

A neat row of cornstalks is optional.

Each stalk of corn (Zea mays) is genetically bred to produce two to three full-sized ears of corn at most. Many stalks develop suckers, called tillers, from underground nodes around the bases. In the past, it was thought that these superfluous stalks sapped energy away from the main stalk and reduced the harvest. Agricultural research in 1998 from the University of Illinois found that tillers don't compete enough with main stalks to have a significant effect on yield. Whether you remove the tillers or leave them as is, is up to you.

1

Examine the bottom of the cornstalk, looking for short stalks growing around its perimeter. Select tillers less than 3 inches tall to avoid damaging the main stalk.

2

Grasp the bottom of a shoot coming from the base of the main cornstalk. There may be more than one, as some varieties are more prone to suckering.

3

Pull the sucker, or tiller, sharply in a downward direction. It should snap off cleanly.

4

Dispose of the sucker in the compost pile.

5

Leave at least one of the tillers and any tillers that are already more than 3 inches tall. They not only help the plants stay more firmly rooted in the soil, but tillers that develop early in the season can grow harvestable corn if the main stalk is damaged.

About the Author

Patricia Hamilton Reed has written professionally since 1987. Reed was editor of the "Grand Ledge Independent" weekly newspaper and a Capitol Hill reporter for the national newsletter "Corporate & Foundation Grants Alert." She has a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Michigan State University, is an avid gardener and volunteers at her local botanical garden.